All too often, devotees of yard sales are the objects of contempt and ridicule by family members who, seeing them return home after yet another weekend morning shopping trip, sigh deeply and ask what on Earth they’ve brought home this time. These poor misunderstood souls are then forced to explain to skeptics how very valuable their finds are, how buying used items is both good for the planet and their pocket books, and how — with just a little TLC — the rusted kettle they’ve brought home will be transformed into a fetching flower vase/table lamp/paperweight. Rarely, however, do they convince.

But on Saturday, May 26, yard-sale enthusiasts will be able to silence even the most scornful by explaining that on top of everything else, their purchases also will have supported a very good cause. On that day, yard sales in support of the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation(CBFC) will take place in communities right across Canada. Money raised through Yard Sale for the Cure events goes toward breast cancer research, advocacy and education.

Founded in 1986, the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation is a volunteer-led organization focused on the goal of reducing the number of people diagnosed with breast cancer, and improving the quality of life for those struck by the disease, which in 2011 affected some 23,400 women and 190 men in Canada. The first sale was held in Toronto’s Beach community in 2005 by breast cancer survivor Rachael Smith, who ran it until the foundation took it over as an official event three years ago. More than $1 million has been raised; this year, the goal is $300,000.

Corporate sponsors have played an important role in expansion of the program. Presenting sponsor Re/Max has supported the event since its inception, raising more than $650,000. Once again this year, broker-owners, Realtors and support staff will be working sales in several communities. In Simcoe, a huge event will be held at the Norfolk County Fairgrounds (172 South Dr.), where shoppers can find everything from skis to centrepieces. In Vaughan (9100 Jane St., Building L), the event takes on the feel of a country fair, with a barbecue, car wash, a kids’ zone and draws. In Burlington, not only will the grounds of the Holy Rosary Church on Plains Rd. E. be filled with classic yard-sale treasures, visitors can also enjoy live music, hot air balloon rides and a dance.

Another sponsor, junk-removal company 1-800-GOT-JUNK, is a natural fit. Since becoming involved with the CBFC, the company has been hosting an annual sale at KEW Gardens Park (2075 Queen St. E.) and has raised more than $78,000. This year’s event, which runs from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., includes a sale of gently used items culled from the company’s collection service, along with entertainment and refreshments. Interestingly, donation is an ongoing part of the company’s corporate structure; the Furniture Bank, Goodwill and Salvation Army all receive goods from them.

This year, they’ve expanded to a second location, and will host a similar sale at Trinity Bellwoods Park at Crawford and Queen St. W. This event (also 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.) will include music provided by media partner Boom 97.3, and Eco Canada Textile Recycling has donated 400 pounds of clothing for sale. A live auction featuring one-of-a-kind pieces will also be held.

In the past six years, the company has raised almost $80,000; this year, it’s looking to bring in $30,000 by selling such items as furniture, music, posters, bikes and small appliances — enough stuff to fill about 125 of their trucks.

There are two ways to participate in this worthwhile initiative — by attending one of the events or by hosting your own yard sale. The CBFC has a website with loads on information on how to host a sale. For $25, you can buy a kit that includes a lawn sign, H-frame stake, T-shirt, hydro poster and 10 pink ribbons. If the idea of organizing a yard sale in support of the foundation appeals to you, but the timing is too tight, keep in mind that you can hold the event at any time.

There are also maps of where you’ll find local sales, along with useful tips for shopping yard sales. For those buying, there seems to be just one tip that’s missing: to be gracious when the family member who initially raised an eyebrow at your purchase later compliments you on that fabulous new chair/painting/garden sculpture. Step away from the snappy retort. Just smile serenely and tell her or him you got it at a yard sale for $10. Imagine how sweet it will be to explain that the money you spent on it went to support the fight against breast cancer.

You can read Vicky Sanderson’s On the House blog at thestar.blogs.com/onthehouse. Contact Vicky Sanderson at vswriter@sympatico.ca and follow her on Twitter @vickysanderson.

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